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Tuesday, March 31, 2009

1. Lincoln Logs were invented by John Lloyd Wright, Frank Lloyd Wright’s son. The original instructions included a how to construct a replica of Abraham Lincoln’s cabin, but also how to construct Uncle Tom’s cabin.2. Tinkertoys were invented after a stonemason saw kids being totally entertained by building things with pencils and spools of thread.3. Hula Hoops have been around forever in various formats, but the “official” Wham-O toy was invented in 1958. The inventors promoted it by going around to various playgrounds and parks giving children samples and showing them how to use it. Something tells me two random men showing up in a park handing out toys wouldn’t go over that well today…

4. Sea Monkeys are real (and that’s what they look like). I always thought they were a scam because I never once saw living Sea Monkeys swimming around in their little plastic home. Not once. They were “invented” in 1957 by Harold von Braunhut, the guy who invented X-Ray specs. They’re really brine shrimp and are ideal for packaging as a toy because they enter a natural state of suspended animation in certain (shippable) environments. When kids release the “monkeys” into the prepared water, they “hatch.” The reason they’re so active (supposedly… I’m still bitter that mine never worked) is because one of the packets you dump into the aquarium contains a type of salt that increases the sexual activity of the little critters. Yep. Think about that the next time your kid is fascinated by Sea Monkeys.

5. Play-Doh was first sold as a wallpaper cleaner. How’s that for weird? You rolled it on the walls to remove coal dust.

6. Troll dolls were created in 1949 by a Danish fisherman who needed a cheap Christmas gift for his daughter because he couldn’t afford to buy anything. He used sheep’s wool for the hair. Thomas Dam’s dolls caught on; thus the original dolls were called Dam Dolls. I got in on the whole troll craze in the early ‘90s; I think they still reside somewhere in my parents’ basement. I remember some of their names… I believe Dud the Surfer was my favorite. That’s not a typo: Dud. Not Dude. He had his own theme song. I’m not entirely sure why I’m sharing this.

7. Slinky was invented by Naval engineer Richard James. He knocked a spring off of a shelf when he was working to develop springs that could keep ship instruments stable in choppy waters. The spring did what a Slinky does… it stepped down to a stack of books, then to the table, and then to the floor, where it righted itself into a cylinder. James knew it would be a great toy, and tests by neighborhood kids proved him right. 8. LEGO blocks were invented by Ole Kirk Christiansen, a master carpenter who lived in Denmark. The word comes from the Danish words LEg and GOdt, which together means “play well.” They later discovered that in Latin, Lego means “I put together.”

9. Raggedy Ann and Andy were created by writer and illustrator Johnny Gruelle. Ann was created as a doll in 1915 for Gruelle’s daughter – he reportedly named the doll after two books poems from a James Whitcomb Riley book – “The Raggedy Man” and “Little Orphan Annie.” Ann inspired Gruelle to write stories about her adventures, and in 1918, Raggedy Ann Stories was released. Her brother, Andy, showed up in 1920. I had a Raggedy Ann doll and she scared the crap out of me. Most dolls did. I had a porcelain doll once and I accidentally broke her arm, and I was convinced that she was going to kill me in the middle of the night for breaking her, so I kept her shut in the closet. To this day I have to have the closet doors closed when I sleep. Have I ever mentioned that my first horror movie was Dolls and I was in third grade? Let the psychoanalysis begin!

10. Sock Monkeys. The sock monkeys that we have come to know and love today – the ones made with Red-Heel socks – are thought to have come about in 1932. The distinctive red heel was given to the socks so customers would know they were getting authentic Rockford socks. When the Nelson Knitting Company discovered that their socks were being used across the country in this arts-and-crafts movement, they won the design patent for the sock monkey pattern and started including it in the packaging of their socks.

The Word of the Day for March 25, 2009 is:

Example Sentence:

Thanks to improvements in public health and dental care in the 20th century, far fewer Americans are edentulous when they enter their golden years.

Did you know?

"Edentulous" comes to English directly from the Latin word "edentulous," which in turn comes from the Latin prefix "e-," meaning "missing" or "absent," and the Latin root "dent-," meaning "tooth." This root is at work in many familiar English words that relate to teeth, including "dental," "dentist," and "denture." It is also found in "edentate," a less common word that functions as a noun referring to an order of mammals with few or no teeth (e.g. sloths and armadillos), and as an adjective describing such mammals. "Edentate" is also sometimes used as a synonym of "edentulous."

Monday, March 23, 2009

I love food. I love to see how food is done and how ingredients are mix together to make a great culinary experience. All this can be done by imaginative and creatives chefs. My favourites are:

Jamie Oliver- I love him for his straightforward dishes which are easy to look at and also deliciously healthy to be eaten. Love especially his shows where he uses fresh vegetables produce from the garden.*Drools*

Rob Rainford- His licence to grill show is to die for. Literally can die seeing his mouthwatering grilled recipes on the show. Marvelous!!!

Rachel Ray-She makes catchphrase such as yummo and the abbreviations EVOO(Extra virgin olive oil) popular. What I like about her also is her spunkyness on her shows and her easy to cook meals with simple ingredients

Nigella Dawson- Doesn't hold back at all when it comes to her ingredients used in her cooking. Always sinful, always delightful.

Sunday, March 22, 2009

By Jada A. Graves

1. Bargain-Basement Pricing

You can get a great price on used cars, but beware of deals that seem too good to be true. There could be something seriously wrong with a car that a seller is practically giving away. Check the suggested value on Kelley Blue Book's or NADA's web sites before you begin negotiating and don't be afraid to ask the seller why the car is priced so low. Remember, just because the car is cheap doesn't mean it is a great deal.

2. No Further Inspection Necessary

A certified pre-owned vehicle is more likely to have been inspected than a car that's privately sold. But in both cases, you can protect yourself by having an independent mechanic look over the car. Paying for your own inspection can confirm problems you already knew existed, or bring to light additional issues that give you room to negotiate a better price. Ask the seller if your regular mechanic can give the car a once-over before you agree to purchase. If you're buying a CPO vehicle, ask the dealer if you can speak with the mechanic who performed the inspection.

If in either case you are told this can't be arranged, you should consider walking away from the deal.

3. Missing Paperwork

A private seller that tells you they don't have the title or maintenance records for the vehicle could be trying to keep something from you. Luckily, you don't have to rely on them to be transparent, as long as you have a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Web sites like NADA.com or CARFAX can provide a vehicle history report to compare with the information the seller has given you on the life of the car. These reports will also give you an ownership history if you're concerned with how many times the car has changed hands.

4. Not Available for Test Drives

If you can, it's always best to take the car for a spin before agreeing to purchase. Test driving a used car will not only give you a handle on how it drives, but it could alert you to any problems the seller downplayed or didn't mention. If you have time, let a friend drive the car as well -- they might notice something that you don't.

5. Sight-Unseen Transactions

The internet has made it easier to find great deals on a wide selection of used cars. But not all of them are in a location convenient to handle the transaction face-to-face, and there are several things to keep in mind when purchasing a car located elsewhere. First up, never transfer any money to a seller until you have the car and its title in hand. Second, be wary of sales that require more than basic transaction information to complete the sale. Third, only use online escrow accounts that you're familiar with to transfer the money and, if possible, pay in person with cash or a check instead. Fourth, try to negotiate a trial period with the car so that you can return it if you're not satisfied -- and get an agreement in writing.

6. Warranty Fine Print

If warranty coverage is offered with your used car, make sure that you understand the terms. Find out when the coverage began. While some manufacturers' plans begin from the time you purchase the vehicle, others modify the time by the age of your vehicle. If you're buying a car from a private seller, double-check whether their original warranty is transferrable so you can retain coverage. Determine whether your warranty includes maintenance, wear and tear, and roadside assistance. Lastly, ask what dealers (if not all) will honor your warranty coverage.

Saturday, March 21, 2009

If you are a tennis lover like me, you can give this game a try. It is called match point tennis.

All you have to do is bring your mouse cursor as near as the ball and your player will hit the tennis ball automatically. As for serving, click once to toss and click another time to hit the teniss ball while its on mid air. Enjoy

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Cg's took turn to visit the boys and girls home for a few weeks, and my group in this particular trip was assigned to make a visit to the boys home. The place that we were going to was at Segamat. So without further due, pictures for illustration purposes.

It's quite a mouthfull

Anyways the first big activity was drawing+coloring+explaning your artwork to each other. This was fun as we get to see each other's creativity.

Art in progress

Choosing the proper colors for your artwork

strewn all over

Pardon my kiddish drawing.

After that Frederick(my caregroup leader),decided to teach the boys some basic on photography.

Teaching in progress

Teaching how to use the macro mode

The result:

Picture 1

Picture 2

While some of the guys are taught the basics of photography, some of the boys are brought to the kitchen to be taught how to make pancakes

Frederick doing wat a chef supposed to do; teach his apprentices

Kelvin is demostrating the way to mix the pancake batter

On of the boys giving it a whisk

Jou chean and lucius didn't want to miss the cooking action too

the finished cooked pancakes( this was not the final product, cos there were more pancakes at the end)

Not long after that, the boys retired for a few games of Uno Stacko

start the ball rolling

asaph!!! You got owned by the boys

noooooo.......don't fall

look at the concentration on the boy's face

*pancake eating session commence. No picture because was busily eating away the pancakes*

So after Uno stacko and eating the pancakes, we all decided to chill and camwhore;

*inserts name of album*

Then it is time to go back to Melaka

Cp:GU gu!!! Ga ga!!!*kawaii!!*

Andrew(The head/coordinator) repeatedly told us not to turn into the the highway leading to Kuala Lumpur, but he actually did at the end. Luckily there were no car behind and then he reverse and head to the highway leading to Johor instead *shakes head*

Today is the day that I have waited for so long. This is because of one activity which is called kayaking. When the time arrived for me to go kayaking, I was very excited to have this opportunity to go kayaking(this is my first time that I am kayaking). So when it's time for me to step into the kayak, something unexpected happen. When I put my foot into the boat I actually cause the boat to drif farther away. Even before I put my other foot into the kayak, I was in a very unstable position and at that moment I knew I will be fall into the lake and I did.

I am thankful that the water in the lake is not contaminated and smelly. I am also thankful that the depth of the lake wasn't that deep when I went in, if not I will be wet all over. With the help of the people that is in charge of the activities at the lake there, I manage to get out from the lake safely. I am really thankful.

I suspected something is wrong when one of the person ask me this question,"Did you left anything inside your pocket", it was that time that I panicked and I feel the pockets around my pants. I was overwhelm when I found out that I forgot to take out my handphone from my short pants. This make me a little bit panick. "How are those people that want to contact me for a meeting, for lunch, or they called me because it was an emergancy?

I don't know what to do actually. For now I need borrow someone's used handphone for a couple of weeks. I also need to bring my phone to a shop to be fix, if only that is possible.

So for now, you can leave a message on my email, ym, msn or even in facebook(mukabuku). Sorry for this inconveniences

Yes, that Australian Cattle Dog from Down Under. A working dog that is traditionally occupied with controlling and herding cattle, its qualities are exceptional intelligence, alertness, resourcefulness, and a fiercely protective loyalty over its property and people. They are agile, strong, active dogs, both physically and mentally, which revel in new experiences. The flip side is that they bore easily and will unintentionally find trouble while looking for activities to occupy themselves with. The Cattle Dog is very organized; many are known for putting their own toys away after playing.

#9 Rottweiler

Another herding dog, the Rottweiler began in Germany as a true work companion. They are still primarily used for work as guard dogs and as police dogs. They are well known for their stoicism, keen perception, courage, and unflagging loyalty. They make an excellent addition to the family.

#8 Papillon

This deceptively cute, butterfly-eared dog is smarter, tougher, and stronger than it appears (it’s like the bionic dog). Often described as big dogs in little bodies, they have the athletic stamina to keep up on long walks, and the bravura of a canine ten times its size. The Papillon is a true companion and watchdog. Although they can be ferociously protective over what belongs to them, their keen intelligence makes it possible to take them anywhere. Let’s not forget they can be litter trained, a big plus.

#7 Labrador Retriever

The Lab, as it is affectionately called, is the most popular breed chosen by families. Another member of the working class of dogs, the Lab is best known for its intelligence, affection, patience, and gentility, making them perfect companions for households with kids. They are easily trained, and, in fact, are one of the top dogs chosen for search and rescue, assisting the disabled, and police work. They are also known to self-train, observing behaviors in humans and repeating them—a great asset in emergency situations.

#6 Shetland Sheepdog

Another herding dog, the Shetland takes this ability into the home, showing the same commitment and protectiveness over its human “herd” as the farm raised version does. Highly intelligent, the Sheltie handles life with great efficiency and diligence, learning new commands with little repetition, and making sure that all of the family is safe, sound, and in place. They show great devotion to their families, and are happy to live just about anywhere.

#5 Doberman Pinscher

Due to an inborn fearlessness and deep stamina, the Doberman is one of the most popular of guard dogs. Smart and assertive, they can easily be trained for dominance or docility. Because of their past as war and police dogs, they may appear fearsome, but they are actually quite gentle. Their loyalty and acuity make Doberman’s great additions to the family.

#4 Golden Retriever

A very affectionate and popular breed, the Golden Retriever is highly regarded for its intelligence. They can learn well over 200 commands, making them indispensable companions, both in the home and in the workplace. Loyal, loving, and patient, with a willingness to please and a love of learning, this is a fabulous companion pet to bring into your family.

#3 German Shepherd

The German Shepherd was originally bred specifically for intelligence. Smart, courageous, and protective, the Shepherd is one of the most dependable of companions. They learn tasks after only a few repetitions, and obey first commands nearly always the first time it is given. They are eager to learn new tasks, as this gives them direction and purpose—very important for a Shepherd. Besides being used for herding animals, they are often used as guard dogs, police dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and have even been trained by the military for parachute jumps.

#2 Poodle

Easily trainable, steadfast, and sharp-minded, Poodles flourish in human company. Even with the frou-frou hairdos, Poodles are sometimes made to endure and can be quite effective as guard dogs, especially the standard sized Poodles. In fact, the “poodle clip,” was created specifically for the working Poodle, so that it could swim more effectively, while still having fur to protect its organs as it went about the business of hunting and retrieving. The Poodle excels at training and obedience, and also loves creative play time. This is what made them so popular as circus performers. But, this can be a drawback as well. If left alone to boredom, Poodles can be creative about finding ways to amuse themselves, sometimes finding trouble along the way.

#1 Border Collie

The Border Collie comes in at number one. Because of their extraordinary intelligence and high energy, it is essential to give Border Collies an occupation or purpose, or you may well find your home wrecked upon your return from a long day at work. They have an intense connection with humans, making them ideal work and home companions. However, keep this in mind: Border Collies invariably will not do well unless they are with people who are as high energy as they are; they do best with humans who can participate in dog sports with them. Also, because of their background as herding dogs, they may be frustrated by small children, as their inability to herd the children as they deem fit is confounded. For the right human, the Border Collie is well behaved, exceptionally good at learning, and a true-blue companion.